Is There A Mite Infestation In My Boise Home?

What Do Mites Look Like?

There are many types of mites found in the local area. Mites are part of the arachnid family, along with ticks and spiders. All mites have eight legs and no antennae. Here is a list of some of the most common species, along with their identifying characteristics:

Spider Mites: This species of mites are found on plants and weave extensive webs. They live in colonies and are about 1/50" big, and they can be red, brown, or pale tan in color. Spider mites are devastating to plants due to their voracious feeding of their leaves.

Dust Mites: These tiny mites are only 1/75" to 1/100" in size, making them invisible to the naked eye. They're a tan or off-white color, and their bodies are bean-shaped. They prefer to feed on the shed skin of humans and animals. You will commonly find them in beds, furniture, clothing, and carpeting.

Clover Mites: Clover mites are bright red in color and leave behind a red stain when you squish them. They're most active during the spring and summer months and are larger than other mites, around 1/30" in size. They feed on plants.

Dog Mites: There are several different types of dog mites that feed on the dander of both dogs and cats. They live in or on the skin of their animal host. These bugs look like tiny black flecks to the naked eye. 

If you spot any of these mites in your home, it might be time to call a Boise pest control specialist like Owyhee Environmental.

Can Mites Infest My Pets?

Mites commonly infest pets and are very contagious amongst animals. They make animals extremely uncomfortable due to the incessant itching they cause. These bugs will also burrow inside the ear canals of dogs and cats. A mite infestation on your pet is also known as a condition called mange. If left untreated, mange can lead to other ailments such as cheyletiellosis and trombiculosis. 

Signs of mites on your furry friend include excessive scratching and hair loss in patches around the body. You may also notice excessive dandruff and red, irritated skin. If your pet is exhibiting these symptoms, bring them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. The good news is that you can treat mites on pets with specialized shampoos and medication.

What Are The Signs Of A Mite Infestation?

Dust mites are most likely the culprit if you have a mite infestation in your home. The most telltale sign of mites in the house is noticing an uptick in allergy symptoms, like coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion, and watery or itchy eyes. Dust mites may also aggravate symptoms in those with asthma.

To get rid of mites in the house, try these simple home remedies:

• Vacuum and dust your home regularly, at least once a week. Make sure to dust your blinds and vacuum underneath furniture.

• Use dust-proof pillow and mattress covers on your bed.

• Wash bedding and towels, and throw blankets in hot water. It's recommended you wash these items every one to two weeks at a temperature between 130 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Declutter your home. Throw away old paper products and cardboard boxes.

When do-it-yourself mite control methods fail, it might be time to contact an exterminator.

How Can I Get Mites Away From My Pets And My Home For Good?

When a mite infestation is causing major problems in your home, contact the experts at Owyhee Environmental. We've been keeping Boise homeowners pest-free since 2019. To learn more about how we can get rid of mites and prevent them from returning, give us a call today.